Washington: The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has said it thwarted a potential threat targeting a major Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) event in Washington, with several individuals taken into custody.

The alert followed intelligence received on 10 June regarding a possible plot involving individuals operating outside the National Capital Region, according to FBI Director Kash Patel.

Alleged drone-based plot

Reports cited by Fox News Digital indicated that the alleged plan involved the use of drones carrying explosives targeting buildings near the UFC event.

The FBI did not confirm specific operational details or the exact number of suspects detained, but said the threat was addressed through a coordinated law enforcement effort across multiple states.

According to media reports, five individuals are currently in custody and authorities have identified a broader network of 23 people linked to the alleged plot.

Official reactions

U.S. President Donald Trump, speaking at the G7 Summit in France, said he had not been briefed on the planned attack at the time.

Vice President JD Vance said the scale of the alleged network suggested significant coordination and resources.

“Twenty-three people do not get to the point where they’re going to commit a mass terror incident in Washington, D.C. without serious funding and coordination,” Vance said in an interview.

Ongoing investigation

Authorities are continuing to examine what officials described as underground networks connected to the suspected plan.

The FBI said it is working closely with partner agencies to determine the full scope of the threat and any wider connections.

The incident highlights ongoing concerns around the use of emerging technologies in potential security threats, as law enforcement agencies increase efforts to monitor and prevent such risks.